Strengthening dialogue with parents and teachers

Alberta’s government is looking for more perspectives from parents and teachers in order to strengthen the education system.

Alberta Education is seeking approximately 80 individuals to serve as members of either a Parent Advisory Council or a Teacher Advisory Council. These councils will provide valuable input on the education system directly to the Minister of Education.

“As a parent of seven children who went through the Alberta education system, I know how important the voices of parents and teachers are,” Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Education said. “Creating these two advisory councils provides another way for parents and teachers to share their views on education policies and initiatives as we work to improve outcomes for students. I encourage any interested parent or teacher to apply, and I look forward to hearing the valuable input they will provide.”

The new councils will provide the minister and the department with valuable input on key priorities within a collaborative and respectful setting. The councils will consist of approximately 40 members each.

The advisory council model proposed for parents and teachers is based upon the successful Minister’s Youth Council, a group of approximately 40 Alberta junior and senior high students providing input to the minister and government on provincial education initiatives.

Council members will reflect the diversity of Alberta, including a variety of geographical locations, school authority types, socio-economic backgrounds and cultural groups.

Interested individuals can apply online to the Parent Advisory Council or the Teacher Advisory Council until Aug. 31.

Council members will serve a ten-month term, aligned with the school year. Members will attend up to four meetings with the minister per term.

Successful applicants for each council will be announced later in the fall.

Arthur@lakelandconnect.thedev.ca